Bristol Bears player given Honorary Degree for tackling mental health stigma

Media Relations Team, 23 July 2024

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A woman wearing a university graduation mortar board and gown smiles against a grey background. — Amber Reed has received an Honorary Master of Science from UWE Bristol

Women’s Rugby World Cup winner, Amber Reed, has been awarded an Honorary Master of Science by UWE Bristol in recognition of her work tackling the stigma around mental health within sport.

Co-captain for Bristol Bears Women, Amber’s played 15 seasons with the club, has 67 caps for England’s women’s rugby team - the Red Roses - and has participated in nine Women’s Six Nations Championships and two Women’s Rugby World Cup tournaments. As well as four Grand Slam titles to her name, Amber was part of the England squad that lifted the trophy at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2014.

She is among nine individuals receiving honorary degrees at UWE Bristol’s fortnight of graduation ceremonies held at the Bristol Beacon, in recognition of outstanding achievements in their chosen fields and significant contributions to Bristol.

Despite her success on the pitch, Amber has had to navigate several injuries in her professional career which, as she’s discussed publicly, has had a knock-on effect to her mental health. This experience prompted Amber to become an ambassador for the mental health organisation Looseheadz, which opens up conversations around mental health within sport.

Overcoming multiple injury setbacks, Amber has used her platform to discuss her struggles and triumphs to help spread awareness of mental health and help guide others.

Amber said: “I have never been one to actively seek the limelight or recognition. If sharing my story helps just one person, I’ll be happy so receiving this award is truly a surprise and a huge honour.

“My advice to graduates would be to embrace the journey you are about to embark on. It won’t be linear and there will be dead ends but believe in yourself and don’t let anyone else define your worth. Share your experiences with others, asking for help is not a weakness and enjoy the ride.”

Sarah Garlick, Deputy Head of Student Support at UWE Bristol said: “Amber is really a worthy recipient of this award, proving that you can turn challenging experiences into a force for good that will help others dealing with similar issues. As well as a hugely successful career on the pitch, off the pitch she’s making a difference to the lives of others with her dedication to discussing mental health and supporting the health and wellbeing of people within Bristol and beyond.”

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